May 13, 2009- Senate Sustains Bennet's Hold on Department of Interior Confirmation

For Immediate Release
May 13th, 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Bob Bennett (R-Utah) today led the charge to successfully sustain his hold on the nomination of David Hayes to be deputy secretary of the Department of the Interior (DOI).

"Today's vote sends a clear message to the administration that it cannot ignore legitimate questions and concerns of Republicans," said Bennett. "Indeed I want to do everything I can to confirm Mr. Hayes expeditiously, but it does not mean that I should give up my rights to get clear answers to my questions. The real obstruction is coming from DOI and its unwillingness, despite commitments made, to answer direct questions from Republicans. There is a clear path forward and it is my hope that the secretary will follow through on the promises made by the department so we can confirm his nominee."

Bennett placed a hold on the nominee because the department refused to provide information regarding the cancellation of the oil and gas leases in Utah. In a document given to the Bennett from Mr. Hayes, the nominee stated that the review of the leases can occur whether or not he is confirmed by the Senate.

"I will continue to work with the department to ensure that Utahns receive straight answers on the capricious decision to cancel these leases. This vote was not about the qualifications of Mr. Hayes; it was about holding the administration's feet to the fire about its own commitment to a balanced energy approach, which includes responsibly developing American energy resources."

The Senate voted 57 to 39 on the cloture vote to proceed to the confirmation of Mr. Hayes. Sixty votes were needed.